Artist’s name: Jennifer LaRosa Hicks
Shop name: Fruitcake Designs
Website: fruitcakedesigns.com
Twitter: Fruitcakedesign
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Fruitcakedesigns


1. Tell us about your work:
I make Vintage inspired costume jewelry , soft goods and home décor. This phrase is kind of over used now – but I started out making handbags with tons of real vintage fabrics and trims and I just love the 40’s, 50’s and 60’s for inspiration. The Domino cuff bracelets were an accidental craft, but I really get a kick out of them!

image: Fruitcake Designs

2. How did you come to be a professional artist/crafter?
Simple, I am just one of those gals who really did know in kindergarten that I wanted to make stuff all the time. My Mom and Grandmother dragged me to every craft show under the sun, and I always said to myself that I would get good enough to sell stuff too one day. I always look at things for what they could be, with a little help. Having a passion for drawing, crafting and learning new techniques is the fuel that keeps me going.

3. Where do you draw your inspiration?
Two things – utter chaos or complete quiet. Chaos would be people, places and things that really make me giggly – like Amy Sedaris, thrift stores or crazy old fabrics. Quiet would be the rare moments I can turn off the universe and just let my mind wander. ( Like this ever happens)

4. What’s your favorite item to make?
Stuff that’s not for sale! I love trying new tutorials and teaching myself stuff. Although I am learning digital collage right now and just printed my own fabric off of Spoonflower.com (yes, go check that out right after reading this, its awesomeness to the max), I am pretty excited about that.

image: Fruitcake Design

5. What’s your best seller?
Hard to say, I quit doing handbags and they were,but I was tired of them. The Domino Cuffs sell well at Holiday time – Aunt So and So would really like one, apparently.

image: etsy

6. How long have you been in Rhode Island?
This will be my 4th year in Lil Rhody. I live near and Iggy’s, dang you clamcakes, dang you all too…

7. What do you {heart} about Rhode Island?
I dig being so close to the beaches (who doesn’t say that?) and being 20 minutes form a big city is nice too.

8. Please include anything else you’d like to add:
Fruitcake thinks you're all goofing off today, and frankly, I approve!